In the Phoenix, Arizona, metropolitan area, recent coyote attacks have reached their 24th victim within 26 years, prompting the reissue of warnings.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department are warning residents not to get too close to wildlife after two recent coyote attacks on young children.
24 Coyote Attacks in 26 Years
The toddlers were attacked in north Scottsdale in March in separate incidents. Both of the kids only suffered minor wounds.
Wildlife authorities think the same coyote was behind both attacks. Following the incidents, AZGFD personnel conducted searches for several days before trapping and euthanizing four coyotes to be tested for rabies. For rabies, all tests yielded negative results.
No further reports of coyotes exhibiting aggressive behavior in that area led AZGFD to end operations, but they are still keeping an eye on the area for any such reports.
Coyote attacks on humans do happen and can be dangerous, according to AZGFD. In the metropolitan area of Phoenix over the past 26 years, there have been 24 reported coyote attacks on people, including the two most recent ones.
Active Feeding
Giving wildlife food, water, and shelter, according to the department, is the main cause of many conflicts between people and wildlife. One of the coyotes that were taken out of this situation still had dog food in its stomach. Staff from the AZGFD also found evidence of active feeding, including scrambled eggs and muffins that had been left out specifically for wildlife.
People who care about wildlife should realize that feeding wild animals or leaving food out for them is not a good idea and can put both the animal and people in danger, according to Darren Julian, an AZGFD urban wildlife specialist. Wildlife, like coyotes, javelina, bobcats, bears, or mountain lions, lose their fear of humans when they come into contact with food, and this can result in conflict situations that are harmful to both humans and wildlife.
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Reminders to Locals
The locals were reminded by AZGFD to prevent coyotes and other wild animals from settling in populated areas. One of the reminders is to refrain from feeding wildlife. In some cities and counties, feeding is not permitted and could even be penalized, according to the Arizona Legislature.
Additionally, AZGFD advised removing water bowls, pet food, and even garbage from the vicinity of homes, arguing that these items should be stored in a secure area that is inaccessible to wildlife. Odors can be removed by regularly washing garbage bins with 10% bleach.
In addition, because coyotes are opportunistic predators, pets shouldn't be left alone from dusk until dawn. Last but not least, young children should never be left outside unattended.
Alternatively, if a coyote is nearby, it is advised to scare it by sprinkling water on it, tossing pebbles at it, or banging pots together to startle it - all of which should be done from a safe distance.
The resident should maintain eye contact; nevertheless, do not turn and run away, advises AZGFD, as this could trigger the coyote's predatory chase response. Locals should make themselves appear larger and yell loudly or roar, but not make high-pitched screams.
If necessary, it's also advised to use a commercial repellent such as pepper spray on obstinate animals that won't leave.
The authorities also reminded the locals to call 911 or the Arizona Game and Fish Department's 24-hour Communications Center at (623) 236-7201 if a coyote has bitten someone. Anyone injured or bitten by a coyote or any other wildlife should seek medical attention right away from a licensed healthcare professional, the Eastern Arizona Courier reports.
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